South Australians now have the opportunity to have their say on the use of private e-scooters and other personal mobility devices across the state’s road network. 

Currently, e-scooters are only permitted for use under trial conditions, with trials currently operating within Adelaide’s CBD and inner suburbs under partnership between local councils and commercial e-scooter fleet operators.

Privately owned e-scooters, e-skateboards and other personal mobility devices (PMDs) are not currently allowed on South Australian public roads and paths.

The state government has committed to a wide consultation with private e-scooter users and local communities on potentially moving beyond the trial phase to an ongoing model that allows riders to use their personal devices.

A YourSay survey was launched this week to seek feedback on whether PMDs should be allowed, and if allowed:

• what kinds of devices should be permitted.
• where should they be used.
• how big should they be.
• how fast should they be allowed to travel.
• what rules should apply to riders.
• whether they should be registered and/or insured.

The results of this consultation will allow the state government to ensure any future framework for personal mobility devices, including for private purposes and on public roads and paths is safe for all road users.

Police Minister Joe Szakacs says E-scooters and other personal mobility devices have become popular in many cities around the world and offer a sustainable alternative transport option for short journeys.

“In Adelaide, more than one million e-scooter trips have been recorded since September 2020 under council-driven trials.

“The current e-scooter trials across metropolitan Adelaide have shown us that e-scooters can reduce traffic congestion, provide a cheaper alternative for short journeys and reduce our carbon footprint.

“But it has also taught us that the misuse of the devices can create safety issues for some of our most vulnerable road users. 

“It’s clear that the law has not kept up with personal mobility devices. The government is committed to meaningful engagement with community to deliver a sustainable and future-proof law reform.”

Greens MLC Robert Simms has welcomed the public consultation.

“Earlier this year, Parliament’s Inquiry into Active and Public Transport recommended that the Government take action to enable privately owned e-scooters and other personal mobility devices to be used on public space. 

“E-scooters are an environmentally friendly transport option that has been embraced by many South Australians. While the committee was supportive of their ongoing use, we also wanted to ensure that the safety of pedestrians and cyclists is protected. 

This consultation process will provide an important opportunity for the community to have their say on how to strike the right balance between e-scooters and other road users.”

The community is invited to provide feedback until consultation closes on Sunday 21 May.

Approved e-scooter trials will continue to operate and be monitored by the Department for Infrastructure and Transport while consultation and feedback is being considered.

To submit feedback visit the YourSay website.